Quezon City Tandang Sora Shrine

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If you want to see historical places in Quezon City, make sure you put the Tandang Sora Shrine first on your list.

On January 6, 2012, the remains of Melchora Aquino or "Tandang Sora" were transferred from Himlayang Pilipino to the Tandang Sora Shrine on Banlat Road (near Tandang Sora Avenue) in Quezon City. This is the site of her original home during the Spanish regime and it's just a short jeepney ride from my place. In fact, you can walk all the way to it, if you have enough time.

Melchora Aquino is the Mother of the Philippine Revolution for the extraordinary efforts and sacrifices she did to help wounded katipuneros who fought the cruel Spaniards. Some call her the "Grand Woman of the Philippine Revolution," while others, "Mother of Balintawak."

Melchora was born on January 6, 1812 and died on March 2, 1919. Due to her participation in the revolution started by Andres Bonifacio through the Katipunan, Melchora was arrested by the Spanish government and exiled to the Marianas Island in Guam. In 1903, Melchora was brought back to the Philippines by the Americans, another cruel invaders in our history.

I've personally met some grand children of Tandang Sora and they all look humble, kind, patient and reserved. Yet, you can discern the braveness in their hearts when you talk to them or look into their eyes. They won't compromise their principles.

The length of Tandang Sora Avenue extends from Quirino Highway in Baesa to the back of UP Diliman along Katipunan Avenue, going through Commonwealth Avenue which goes to Fairview. Simply tell the driver to drop you off at Banlat Road and take a tricycle there to the Shrine.

I can remember when Banlat Road used to be rural, with rice fields and rustic scenes and houses. Traveling through Tandang Sora was like traveling in the province. Almost all the houses were semi nipa hut and wood and concrete. But today, the place is bustling with commercial establishments and modern subdivisions.

Image from Wikimedia Commons